My department at work (local hospital) is collecting boxes as "Treats for Troops" for the guys and girls in Afganistan for Chrimbo. Couple of people who, knowing I am ex-RN have asked me what sort of thing they should put in the box. Having never been to Afganistan I don't know what sort of thing would be useful ... I suspect things have changed from my times in the Falklands ('82).

So apart from the anticipated suggestions of "nude photos" etc from some RR members - :-D has anyone got any sensible suggestions????

Magazines: Nuts GQ, Bizzarre, cars, bikes etc - the NAAFI in AFG charge an absolute fortune for these.
Choccies and big bags of sweets go down well, not too bad over the Xmas period too as the temperature goes down so they dont melt etc.
Cup-a-soups went down well with everyone when i was there, no reason it should have changed now.

Toiletries are VERY expensive to buy in the NAAFI out there too, so shave foams, shower gels, wet wipes, toothpaste, etc - any of that type of thing.

A few years ago a handful of us in the pub sent our bootneck oppo; A copy of Gay News (OK, not very original), some kid's shoes, fridge magnets, some colouring books and a rather snazzy brown paisley nylon tie I picked up in the cancer shop for 50p, amongst other useful items. Fortunately he saw the funny side.

I'd exercise caution with toys. When I was last out, we did not encourage them. Afghan children are not western children. They don't have toys, the Kandahar branch of Toys R Us not being the most popular outlet. We bring injured children into the hospital and give them something which 1/ they are not used to and 2/ they learn to love. When they leave the hospital, the toys are evidence they have been in contact with ISAF forces and can lead to isolation of the entire family by the locals. Also, the toys will not be replaced by their parents.

It is certainly well meaning, and the opinion may have changed, but I would be reluctant to send toys out.